September - the perfect month for house hunting in France

This September looks set to be the busiest for years for the French property market as British investors make the most of attractive house prices and good mortgage deals.

Buying activity is traditionally high in early Autumn as house hunters take advantage of the weeks following the peak tourist season when the weather is still mild but the roads are quieter and hotel prices cheaper.

But this year investors can expect to find a greater range of properties than in recent years and good value for money.

French property expert Patrick Joseph of My-French-House.com said improvements in the exchange rate and good mortgage availability has made September 2010 a prime time for buyers.

"There are some fantastic properties around, particularly in the Loire Valley, the Dordogne and Brittany where there is a good supply of homes that are reasonably priced," he said.

"September is a great time to visit France because most of the holidaymakers have gone home but the weather is still warm and sunny and the countryside and scenery is at its best.

"Property prices are low in France right now but they are starting to rise so anyone looking this Autumn should act quickly to take advantage of the investment opportunity."